1834 C. Bechtler Five Dollar Gold Piece - 140 Grains, 20 Carats, Rutherford, Plain Edge

Coin Details

Auction Record

$48,000 MS61 05-07-2023 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1834 Christopher Bechtler Five Dollar Gold Piece with 140 grains, 20 carats, "RUTHERFORD" fully spelled out, and plain edge is the most complete geographic inscription among the Bechtler Rutherford County varieties. Where other dies abbreviated the county name as "RUTHERF:" or "RUTHERF" without punctuation, this die spells out "RUTHERFORD" in full, providing the most explicit identification of the coin's origin. The plain edge is a notable feature that sets this apart from the reeded edge versions. The full "RUTHERFORD" inscription occupies more die space than abbreviated versions, requiring adjustments to the layout of other design elements. The decision to spell out the county name in full may reflect Christopher Bechtler's desire to provide maximum transparency about his coin's origin, or it may simply represent one of many die variations produced during the course of the mint's operation. Combined with "CAROLINA GOLD," the full county name creates a detailed geographic provenance for the coin. The plain edge on this variety is less common than the reeded edge treatment and represents either an earlier production method or a parallel issue struck without the reeding step. Collectors of Bechtler coinage distinguish carefully between plain and reeded edge varieties, as the edge treatment can significantly affect a coin's rarity and value within the series.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Estimated 20-35 surviving examples. The full "RUTHERFORD" spelling combined with plain edge creates a distinctive and sought-after variety.

Cross References

PCGS #10091; NGC #31038